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The reaffirmation came as the two ministers reviewed close bilateral ties and discussed ways to strengthen cooperation across multiple areas while addressing regional developments of mutual concern. Senior officials from both countries attended the talks in the Saudi capital. Both sides stressed the need to respect national sovereignty, uphold good neighborly relations and avoid any interference in internal affairs, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Fuad Hussein renewed Iraq’s pledge not to permit its land or airspace to be used as a launch point for attacks against Saudi Arabia, GCC member states or other countries in the region, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The Iraqi minister underlined Baghdad’s support for the security and stability of Saudi Arabia while calling for stronger bilateral coordination. This position builds on Iraq’s consistent diplomatic messaging aimed at fostering regional calm.
The July 12 meeting occurs against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, including alleged drone incidents earlier in 2026 that prompted similar Iraqi assurances. In May 2026, Iraqi government spokesman Bassem al-Awadi condemned attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and offered full cooperation in investigations while reiterating rejection of any use of Iraqi territory for such actions, according to Asharq Al-Awsat. Al-Awadi stated at the time that Iraq rejects the use of its territory, airspace or territorial waters to launch any attack on neighboring countries and that there would be no leniency toward those harming Iraqi sovereignty or relations with Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia and Iraq have worked over recent years to improve diplomatic, economic and security relations following decades of strain. The Saudi Press Agency noted that the ministers emphasized joint efforts to support Iraq’s stability and strengthen its institutions as part of broader regional coordination. Such engagements align with Iraq’s outreach to Gulf partners amid ongoing security challenges.
A Carnegie Endowment assessment published in July 2026 highlighted how diplomatic assurances like those from Baghdad play a role in managing Gulf security dynamics following recent Iran-related conflicts in the area. The report pointed to the importance of preventing proxy activities that could destabilize neighboring states. Iraqi officials have repeatedly positioned their country as a stabilizing actor that rejects aggression from or through its borders.
The talks also touched on issues of shared interest, including support for stability across the wider region. Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Fuad Hussein agreed on the value of continued dialogue to address common challenges. The Saudi Press Agency said both parties committed to follow-up coordination on the discussed matters.
